Hi Willa,
I don't have any magic answer for you, but I would try sending in lots of baked goods to the teachers. I am 100% serious about this.
I would also try to master the art of the 1 second compliment. "Mite was so happy with the immigration lesson you taught yesterday." and "Mite says your the nicest (funniest, smileyest) teacher he's ever had." and aim for sending these cute little notes by mail or with Mite or email, whatever, at least 3 times/adult/week. Then weekly or every other week, a longer story about how well Mite is doing academically, because, you know how much they care.
Am I scaring you? I should be. You shouldn't have to go so far, and I'm not saying to flat out lie, but you have complete freedom of perspective - put your feelings aside and make good use of it! You can brag/whine to us. I'm pleased that you have options if the major kiss-up job isn't your cup of tea, but I think it's worth trying anyway for the experience.
I feel your pain
Trinity
